The quiet town of Ezimo in Udenu Local Government Area of Enugu State came alive today as indigenes, well-wishers, and dignitaries gathered to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the passing of the revered traditional ruler, His Royal Highness Igwe John C. Odoh (Ezi Igbo I of Ezimo land).

Igwe’s portrait
Igwe Odoh, who died in May 2015 and was laid to rest on July 31 of the same year, reigned as the Traditional ruler of Ezimo Community. His legacy as a unifying figure and respected custodian of Ezimo’s culture and heritage remains indelible in the hearts of his people.

The first son of the Late Monarch, Prince J.C Jnr (left), Onyekachi C Ugwu (middle) and Prince Chidi at the event.
The annual memorial event, now in its 10th year, is traditionally hosted by his children at their family compound in Ozalla, Ezimo. The ceremony has evolved into a solemn, yet celebratory gathering, honouring the life and times of the monarch whose leadership shaped the modern identity of the Ezimo people.

Sons of the Late Igwe J.C Odoh with Onyekachi C. Ugwu and other guests at the occasion
Speaking during the ceremony, the first son of the late monarch, Prince Joel Chijioke Odoh (popularly known as JC Jnr.), expressed profound gratitude to all who turned up to honour their patriarch. “It’s been ten years, yet it feels like yesterday. Our father was a great man whose love for his people remains a compass for us. This annual memorial is our way of keeping his memory alive and celebrating the values he lived for,” he said.

The tomb and gravestone of the fallen Community Leader
As in previous years, the event attracted a large turnout of Community members, friends, and well-wishers, including former Chairman of Udenu LGA, Onyekachi C Ugwu, who is an illustrious son of the Community. The atmosphere was festive, with guests treated to traditional delicacies, drinks, and music that echoed into the twilight. Laughter and dancing filled the compound, painting a picture of the unity and joy that Igwe Odoh himself championed during his reign.




